Do I need an SR-22 for a wet reckless conviction?

SR-22 insurance costs an average of $62 to $122 per month, depending on the insurer and the offense that led to the SR-22 requirement. The DMV in your state will also charge a one-time fee to file the necessary paperwork.

It costs $25 to $50 to file an SR-22 form with the DMV, depending on the state. In addition to proving you have enough coverage to drive legally, the SR-22 flags you as a … read full answerhigh-risk driver, which explains why your insurer will charge you more than the average policyholder for coverage.

SR-22 Insurance Cost by Company

Factors That Affect SR-22 Insurance Costs

Premiums vary based on infraction, company, state, and individual driver. How much coverage you buy also makes a difference in cost. For instance, if you only buy the minimum amount of insurance required by your state, you can fulfill your SR-22 requirement for a lower price than if you purchased a full coverage policy. And since you only need to have an SR-22 for 1-5 years, depending on the state, your premium will eventually go back down.

To learn more, check out WalletHub’s complete guide to SR-22 insurance.

No, a “wet reckless” is not the same as a DUI. Some drivers who have been charged with a DUI are given the option of pleading guilty to a “wet reckless” instead, which carries reduced penalties compared to driving under the influence. A “wet reckless” will be marked on your driving record as a conviction for reckless driving with a note indicating the case involved alcohol or drugs.… read full answer

A driver may be offered a “wet reckless” if it was their first DUI, they have no criminal record, or they had a low blood alcohol concentration (BAC). A driver can never be charged with a “wet reckless” violation as it is a plea bargain that is only offered to some drivers after being charged with a DUI.

How a Wet Reckless Is Less Severe Than a DUI

• Reduced jail time. If you live in a state that has jail time for DUI offenders, receiving a “wet reckless” instead will reduce your jail time. The maximum jail sentence for a “wet reckless” is 90 days, depending on your state.

• No mandatory license suspension. All but six states automatically suspend the license of someone charged with a DUI, but there is typically no mandatory license suspension or revocation for a “wet reckless.”

• No mandatory car equipment. Most states require drivers with a DUI to have an ignition interlock device in their car for anywhere from 3 months to 3 years after the violation, depending on your state. This device is not required for a “wet reckless” if it was a first offense.

To learn more, check out WalletHub’s guide to the strictest and most lenient states on DUI, as well as our picks for the cheapest car insurance after a DUI.